Hill Haven Nursing Home, formally known as Hill Haven Rehabilitation and Transitional Care Center, has long served as an important facility for senior care in its community. Established in 1968, the center has been in operation for more than 40 years, providing a range of services in rehabilitation, transitional care, and long-term nursing support. Over the decades, Hill Haven has adapted to the evolving needs of its residents, always aiming to supply a supportive environment tailored to individuals transitioning from hospitals to home or requiring sustained assistance due to chronic health needs.
In recent years, Hill Haven has faced several challenges that reflect broader trends affecting nursing homes both within the state and nationally. The rise in demand for in-home care and alternative transitional senior health options has significantly influenced the landscape of extended care. As more families and individuals opt for these alternatives, traditional facilities like Hill Haven have experienced shifting patterns in occupancy and demand for services.
The facility has been home to a large, dedicated staff—numbering around 350 employees—who have been instrumental in ensuring continued care and support for residents. These employees are being transitioned into other positions within the broader health system, ensuring that their expertise and commitment to elder care remain part of the community. The resident population at Hill Haven, which can accommodate up to 288 residents, has recently stood at around 175 individuals. With the support of social workers and case managers, every resident and their family has been promised assistance in transitioning to a new care arrangement, whether that be a different nursing facility within the system or a return to the comfort of home.
While the center’s overall Medicare rating has been described as below average—largely due to factors related to health inspections—Hill Haven’s quality-of-care rating has stood out as well above average. This reflects a deep commitment by the staff to resident well-being, even as the facility navigated a challenging inspection environment and difficult circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hill Haven came into particular focus during the pandemic, as it sadly recorded the highest number of COVID-related deaths among nursing homes in the county. This tragic distinction underscores the acute pressures faced by long-term care centers during public health crises.
Following months of careful deliberation, a decision has been made to retire the building and close Hill Haven. Even as the doors prepare to close, the values and dedication of the Hill Haven team are set to carry forward, maintaining the legacy of care that has characterized the facility for decades. The transition plan emphasizes empathy, continuity, and support for both employees and residents, reflecting the compassion that has long defined Hill Haven’s approach to elder care.